Day three of the NFL Combine brings the defensive linemen and linebackers to town, but more importantly we will get an uptick in actual activities. Thursday saw the offensive linemen, tight ends and special teamers all get measured up. Friday brings us the first workouts, the return of the Wonderlic and the measurements for quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers. Which QB will measure an inch or two short? Which wide receiver will get labeled with "small hands"? Can you feel the excitement?
Nick and Trevor took a few minutes to discuss a few players at each position arriving today that they will be keeping an eye on over the next few days through media appearances, measurements and workouts & drills. You can check out their initial comments on the day one arrivals and the day two arrivals.
Nick Chiamardas
Defensive Lineman
Brandon Williams, Missouri Southern State - The 325lbs nose tackle was a three time All-American at MSSU, a feat only accomplished by two other Division II players. Performed well at the Senior Bowl against NFL talent proving he's capable of making it the at the next level. He's not a legitimate pass rusher by any means but his agility and versatility (played all positions along the line at MSSU) make him an intriguing prospect in the mid rounds.
Davis Bass, Missouri Western State - Projects as either 4-3 end or 3-4 OLB, Bass amassed 39.5 sacks during his 50 game career. Was almost unblockable at the East-West Shrine game in January. Has decent speed but will need to replicate an earlier 4.6 40 time in order to fit into a 3-4.
Montori Hughes, Tennessee-Martin - The biggest questions surrounding the 324lb lineman is health. When healthy, Hughes has been a terror along the line.He exhibited above average athleticism at the Senior Bowl this year while also showing off his power. Could move into the top group of nose tackles with a solid Combine.
Josh Boyd, Mississippi State - Boyd has great quickness for a 305lb lineman. Could play the 3-technique DT or 5-technique DE. Has the motor and above average hand skills to potentially play 2-gap assignments. Needs to show better lower body strength and power. Could provide much need depth along the line.
Linebacker
Brandon Jenkins, Florida State - He's technically part of the DL group but he'll line up at linebacker in the NFL. Jenkins missed the entire 2012 season with Lisfranc injury to his left foot. He was considered first round talent until the injury so scouts are excited to see what he can do. Should he look like his old self, Jenkins could fly up draft boards.
Chase Thomas, Stanford - Jim Harbaugh might have his eye on his former linebacker at Stanford. While not the most athletic pass rusher, he can has great reaction skills and an uncanny ability to fight through blocks. Will need to post quick times in the agility drills to impress, otherwise he's a mid round pick.
Corey Lemonier, Auburn - Another 3-4 OLB competing with the DL group, Lemonier is a natural pass rusher. The junior would have benefitted from another year in school but his natural ability to make an impact right away. Should test well and excite some scouts this weekend.
Trevor Woods
Defensive Line
Johnathan Hankins, Ohio State - If Hankins falls to the 49ers, I wouldn't mind the Niners snatching him. Hankins figures to be a prototypical 3-4 nose tackle in the NFL. Some have even compared his skill set to that of Haloti Ngata. Agile and strong, Hankins may become a force to be reckoned with. The only knock on Hankins has been scouts questioning his durability in games and if he can keep weight off.
Jonathan Jenkins, Georgia - This Johnathan is arguably better than Hankins. At 6-4 359, Jenkins has a frame that will be able to fight in the trenches and win in the NFL. He won't provide much of a pass rush, but can clog holes, take on double teams, and make sure the running back doesn't gain any yards.
William Gholston, Michigan State - Margus Hunt and other big bodied lineman are getting more recognition, but Gholston could be a steal in this draft when everything is said and done. 6-7 278lbs of force, Gholston possesses the ability to throw lineman out of his way with his strength while also relying on his speed to get around them at times as well. Gholston would be a pass rushing threat who also could grow into being a solid run defender.
Linebackers
Jamie Collins, SMU - Collins had a great year for SMU, racking up 10 sacks to go along with 91 tackles. While he doesn't have top tier speed, Collins makes up for that with sound tackling and a knack for being able to get to the quarterback. Collins is good in pursuit.
Zaviar Gooden, Missouri - Gooden may be the fastest linebacker tested at the draft (likely to run a sub 4.49). While he's raw, his talent is undeniable. Gooden could stand to gain a bit more weight to help battle with offensive lineman, but he's more than capable of guarding tight ends. He also must show better awareness stopping the run and containing the edge. Maybe Aldon and company could help the kid improve.
DAY 3 ARRIVALS*: Group 7 (DL), Group 8 (DL), Group 9 (LB)
| Friday February 22, 2013 | Travel to Indianapolis* ~ Registration ~ Hospital Pre-Exam & X-rays ~ Orientation ~ Interviews |
| Saturday February 23, 2013 | Measurements ~ Medical Examinations ~ Media ~ Interviews |
| Sunday February 24, 2013 | NFLPA Meeting ~ Psychological Testing ~ Bench Press ~ Interviews |
| Monday February 25, 2013 | On-Field Workout (timing, stations, skill drills) ~ Departure from Indianapolis |